You probably feel overwhelmed and confused. You wonder, "What now?"
The good news is that you have a community to fall back on. You don't have to face the situation alone. You have the support of countless others who have experienced the same shock. Your diagnosis is only the first step. There are ways you can manage your diabetes - through diet, exercise, medical support and emotional help. Get active.
If you have type 1 diabetes, it means that your pancreas does not produce insulin. You need to monitor your blood sugar and inject yourself with insulin several times a day using a pen, syringe or pump. Finding ways to control your blood glucose levels, insulin intake, diet and physical activity, and working with your diabetes team, can help you feel healthier and better manage your condition.
Getting started with type 2, to use glucose for energy, your body needs insulin. However, with type 2 diabetes, your body doesn't make enough insulin or use it properly, so the body's cells can't use glucose for energy. If the glucose stays in your blood, it can cause serious problems.
While there is no cure for both types of diabetes, there are ways to manage the condition - through a balanced diet, an active lifestyle and (in some cases) medication.
Take your medication this can be another key to managing your diabetes.